System and method for embedding a tracking device in a footwear insole

ABSTRACT

A novel tracking system is disclosed. In one embodiment, a long-range tracking device is incorporated into a removable footwear insole and a short-range tracking device is incorporated into another removable footwear insole. The long-range tracking device includes a location determining device, a wireless communication device, and a power source. In a more particular embodiment, the location determining device is a GPS receiver, and the communication device is a cellular modem.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of co-pending U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 16/369,935, filed on Mar. 29, 2019 by the same inventors, whichis a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/858,881 (nowU.S. Pat. No. 10,292,453), filed Dec. 29, 2017 by the same inventors,which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/120,374(now U.S. Pat. No. 9,854,872) entitled “System And Method For EmbeddingA Tracking Device In A Footwear Insole,” filed May 14, 2014 by the sameinventors, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional PatentApplication Ser. No. 61/823,062 entitled “System And Method ForEmbedding A Tracking Device In A Footwear Insole,” filed May 14, 2013 byat least one common inventor, and U.S. Provisional Patent ApplicationSer. No. 61/897,485 entitled “Footwear With Removable Tracking Unit,”filed Oct. 30, 2013 by at least one common inventor, all of which areincorporated herein by reference in their respective entireties.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Field of the Invention

This invention relates generally to personal tracking devices, and moreparticularly to personal tracking devices incorporated into footwear.

Description of the Background Art

Personal tracking devices are known in the art. One possibly desirablemeans of carrying a personal tracking device is to incorporate thepersonal tracking device into footwear. However, there are manyobstacles to incorporating personal tracking devices into footwear,while maintaining the comfort, appearance, and affordability of thefootwear.

Previously, this has been accomplished with footwear that is speciallydesigned to receive a tracking system. For example, some footwear hasbeen designed with special cavities formed in the sole so as to providea place to conceal a GPS device.

There are problems associated with such footwear. For example, usershave a limited selection of footwear styles. That is, users are limitedto only those styles made available by the tracking system footwearmanufacturer. Of course, such footwear is also likely to be moreexpensive than conventional footwear. In addition, most people haveseveral pairs of shoes/footwear for different occasions. Having severalpairs of GPS enabled footwear would be cost-prohibitive for manypotential users.

Another problem with tracking devices that use satellite signals is thatthe tracking devices can be nonfunctional in certain areas (e.g., insideof buildings) where the satellite signals cannot be received. Inaddition, the battery life of the tracking device can be diminished ifthe device is constantly searching for a signal or otherwise operatingwhen not needed.

What is needed, therefore, is a tracking system that can be incorporatedinto footwear that is not specifically designed to receive trackingdevices. What is also needed is a tracking device that can be easilytransferred from one pair of footwear to another. What is also needed isa tracking device that can be used interchangeably with multipledifferent pairs of footwear. What is also needed is a tracking devicethat operates satisfactorily when worn indoors for extended periods oftime.

SUMMARY

The present invention overcomes the problems associated with the priorart by providing a tracking device that can be easily transferredbetween different pairs of footwear. The present invention alsoovercomes the problems associated with the prior art by providing atracking device that includes a long-range tracking device and ashort-range tracking device. The invention facilitates tracking a wearerwithin a predefined space (e.g., a patient care facility) using theshort-range tracking device, and tracking the wearer with the long-rangetracking device when the wearer leaves the predefined space. In anexample embodiment, the tracking device is contained within a pair ofremovable footwear insoles, with the short-range tracking devicedisposed in one of the insoles and the long-range tracking devicedisposed within the other of the insoles.

An example footwear insole tracking system includes a first insole bodyand a first tracking device. The first insole body is configured forremovable insertion into footwear and configured to engage the plantarregion of a foot of a wearer. The first tracking device is disposed atleast partially within the first insole body.

The first tracking device includes a location determining device, awireless communication device, and a power source. The locationdetermining device is electrically coupled to the wireless communicationdevice, and both location determining device and the wirelesscommunication device are electrically coupled to the power source (e.g.,via a modular connector).

In the example embodiment, the power source is a battery. In an exampleembodiment, the battery is a lithium polymer battery. Alternatively, thebattery can be a flexible lithium ceramic battery. Optionally, the powersource can include an electricity generator.

Several alternative means for charging the battery are disclosed.According to one alternative, the footwear insole tracking systemadditionally includes an inductance charging element disposed at leastpartially within the first insole body and being electrically coupled tothe battery. In another embodiment, the footwear insole tracking systemincludes a wired electronic communication port electrically coupled tothe first tracking device, being disposed at least partially within thefirst insole body, and being accessible from outside the first insolebody. In yet another embodiment, the footwear insole tracking systemincludes a set of wires electrically coupled to the first trackingdevice and extending from the first insole body.

Several means for relieving stress on the wires are disclosed. In oneembodiment, the set of wires is coiled to facilitate flexing. In anotherembodiment, the first tracking device includes a circuit board. Thelocation determining device and the wireless communication device arecoupled to the circuit board, and the set of wires is wrapped around thecircuit board. In yet another embodiment, the set of wires is arrangedin a generally zig-zagged shape.

Means for protecting the battery from damage and for protecting thewearer from the battery are provided in the insole. For example, oneembodiment includes an optional fireproof enclosure disposed within thefirst insole body and surrounding the battery. As another option, thefootwear insole tracking system can include a rigid plate disposed atleast partially in the first insole body. The battery is then positionedabove the rigid plate to protect the battery against puncture if, forexample, the wearer steps on a nail that punctures the bottom of thefootwear.

Means for protecting the tracking device from the process of beingincorporated into a footwear insole are also disclosed. For example, atleast one of the location determining device and the wirelesscommunication device is at least partially encapsulated in epoxy. Asanother option, the footwear insole tracking system can include a rigidhousing disposed at least partially in the first insole body andcovering at least a portion of the first tracking device. In an exampleembodiment, the rigid housing is an enclosed receptacle, and thelocation determining device and the wireless communication device aresubstantially enclosed within the receptacle.

In an example embodiment, the first tracking device is a long-rangetracking device. The location determining device is a global positioningsystem signal receiver, and the wireless communication device is a cellphone modem, which includes a global system for mobile communicationantenna. The footwear insole tracking system additionally includes asubscriber identification module card coupled to the wirelesscommunication device and disposed at least partially in the first insolebody. One or both of the location determining device and the wirelesscommunication device include a flexible patch antenna disposed withinthe insole body. Optionally, at least one of the location determiningdevice and the wireless communication device includes an antenna mounteddirectly on a circuit board.

In an example embodiment, the location determining device includes aglobal positioning system antenna (GPS) mounted on a circuit board, andthe location determining device and the wireless communication deviceare mounted on the same circuit board. The GPS antenna is located on oneside of the circuit board, and a processing unit of the first trackingdevice is located on an opposite side of the circuit board. Thesubscriber identification module card of the first tracking device isalso located on the opposite side of the circuit board.

Alternate means for mounting a tracking device or any other type ofdevice within a removable footwear insole are also disclosed. Themounting means include an electronic device receptacle disposed at leastpartially in the insole body and accessible from outside the insolebody. The electronic device receptacle is configured to receive thefirst tracking device and/or any other type of device configured to fitwithin the receptacle. The insole body is formed around the receptacleby, for example, molding the insole body around the first trackingdevice.

In an example embodiment, the first insole body is formed frompolyurethane material. Optionally, the first tracking device is fullyencapsulated within the first insole body.

Alternatively, the first tracking device can be a short-range trackingdevice detectable within a limited space by a local tracking system.

Either embodiment (the first tracking device is a short-range trackingdevice or the first tracking device is a long range tracking device)provides, individually, important advantages over the devices of theprior art. However, when both embodiments are used in combination, animportant synergy and even greater advantages over the prior art areachieved.

In an example combined embodiment, the first tracking device is ashort-range tracking device detectable within a limited space by a localtracking system. The footwear insole tracking system additionallyincludes a second insole body configured for removable insertion intofootwear and configured to engage the plantar region of an opposite footof the wearer, with respect to the first insole body. A long-rangetracking device is disposed at least partially within the second insolebody and is trackable outside the limited space by a long-range trackingsystem. The long-range tracking device includes a location determiningdevice, a wireless communication device electrically coupled to thelocation determining device, and a power source electrically coupled tothe location determining device and the wireless communication device.

A method of tracking an object is also disclosed. The method includesattaching a short-range tracking device to the object and attaching along-range tracking device to the object. The method additionallyincludes determining when the object has left a predefined area usingthe short-range tracking device, and activating the long-range trackingdevice when it is determined that the object has left the predefinedarea. The method continues by tracking the object outside the predefinedare with the long-range tracking device.

A footwear insole device hosting platform is also disclosed. Thefootwear insole includes an insole body configured for removableinsertion into footwear and configured to engage the plantar region of afoot. The footwear insole additionally includes an electronic devicereceptacle disposed within the insole body and configured to selectivelyreceive an electronic device from outside the insole body. Theelectronic device receptacle is configured to retain and house theelectronic device during use of the insole, and to selectively releasethe electronic device to facilitate removal and replacement of theelectronic device.

A method of manufacturing a tracking device is also disclosed. Themethod includes providing a first tracking device and disposing thefirst tracking device in a first removable footwear insole. In anexample method, the first tracking device is either a short-rangetracking device or a long-range tracking device. The method optionallyincludes the additional steps of providing a second tracking device, anddisposing the second tracking device in a second removable footwearinsole. One of the first removable footwear insole and the secondremovable footwear insole are configured for a right foot, and the otherof the first removable footwear insole and the second removable footwearinsole are configured for a left foot. Additionally, one of the firsttracking device and the second tracking device is a short-range trackingdevice, and the other of the first tracking device and the secondtracking device is a long-range tracking device.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention is described with reference to the followingdrawings, wherein like reference numbers denote substantially similarelements:

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a system for tracking and/or monitoring oneor more tracking units;

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the tracking unit of FIG. 1 in greaterdetail;

FIG. 3 is a representational floor plan of care facility employing thetracking system of FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a side view of footwear having insoles with embedded trackingunits;

FIG. 5 is a top perspective view of the long-range tracking device ofFIG. 2;

FIG. 6 is a bottom view of the long-range tracking device of FIG. 2;

FIG. 7 is a top perspective view of the long-range tracking device ofFIG. 2 including a semi-housing structure;

FIG. 8 is a top perspective view of the long-range tracking device ofFIG. 2 including a full housing structure;

FIG. 9 is a top view of the long-range tracking device of FIG. 2disposed in a protective substrate;

FIG. 10 is a top perspective view of the long-range tracking device ofFIG. 2 further including a substrate layer;

FIG. 11 is a top view of the tracking device of FIG. 10 disposed in aninsole;

FIG. 12A depicts a first step of manufacturing the insole of FIG. 8;

FIG. 12B depicts a second step of manufacturing the insole of FIG. 8;

FIG. 12C depicts a third step of manufacturing the insole of FIG. 8;

FIG. 12D depicts a fourth step of manufacturing the insole of FIG. 8;

FIG. 12E depicts a fifth step of manufacturing the insole of FIG. 8;

FIG. 13 is a top view of an insole according to another embodiment ofthe present invention;

FIG. 14 is a top view of an insole according to another embodiment ofthe present invention;

FIG. 15 is a top view of an insole according to another embodiment ofthe present invention;

FIG. 16 is a top view of an insole according to another embodiment ofthe present invention;

FIG. 17 is a rear view of the insole of FIG. 16;

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of an electronic device receiving insole;

FIG. 19A depicts a first step of manufacturing the insole of FIG. 18;

FIG. 19B depicts a second step of manufacturing the insole of FIG. 18;

FIG. 19C depicts a third step of manufacturing the insole of FIG. 18;

FIG. 20 is a flowchart summarizing one method for manufacturing afootwear insole with an embedded tracking device; and

FIG. 21 is a flowchart summarizing one method for tracking an object.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present invention overcomes problems associated with the prior art,by providing a footwear insole with an embedded tracking device. Thepresent invention also overcomes problems associated with the prior art,by providing a tracking device that includes a long-range trackingdevice and a short-range tracking device. In the following description,numerous specific details are set forth (e.g., particular electroniccomponents) in order to provide a thorough understanding of theinvention. Those skilled in the art will recognize, however, that theinvention may be practiced apart from these specific details. In otherinstances, details of well-known footwear insole manufacturing andelectronics assembly practices and components have been omitted, so asnot to unnecessarily obscure the present invention.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a system 100 for tracking and/or monitoringone or more tracking units 102(1-m) and for providing customizedaugmented location data to each of a plurality of subscribers 118 (1-p)associated with the tracking units 102(1-m). System 100 includes aplurality of tracking units 102(1-m), one or more servers 104(1-n), asubscriber profile database 106, and a tracking interface 112, allintercommunicating via an internal network 114. System 100 also includesone or more subscribers systems 118(1-p), which communicate with aninternetwork 122 (e.g., the Internet). Internal network 114 is alsoconnected to internetwork 122 through a firewall 124, which provides ameasure of security for internal network 114 against incoming threatsfrom internetwork 122. As will later be described in further detail,each tracking unit 102 is adapted to be disposed in footwear such thatthe wearer can be tracked by one or more of subscribers 118.

The elements of tracking system 100 provide the following generalfunctions. Tracking units 102(1-m) provide geographical location data(e.g., latitude and longitude coordinates, etc.) indicating theirgeographical locations to servers 104(1-n) via tracking interface 112.In addition, tracking units 102(1-m) can also be tracked by a localsubscriber tracking system, as will be explained in greater detailbelow. Servers 104(1-n) perform tracking services for subscribers usingsubscriber systems 118(1-p) and augment location data received fromtracking units 102(1-m) so that the subscribers using subscriber systems118 (1-p) can track and/or monitor their associated tracking unit(s)102(1-m) in a customized, augmented manner. Subscriber profile database106 stores information, including customized augmentation preferences,associated with each subscriber. Servers 104(1-n) augment and transmitlocation data to subscribers using subscriber systems 118(1-p). Trackinginterface 112 receives data and commands from servers 104(1-n) (e.g.,location request signals, control routines, etc.) and transmits the dataand commands to the destination tracking unit 102(1-m). Trackinginterface 112 also receives data (e.g., location data, bio-metric sensorreadings, alert signals, etc.) from tracking units 102(1-m) and providesthe received data to one or more servers 104(1-n). In the presentembodiment, tracking interface 112 interfaces with tracking units102(1-m) wirelessly, for example via a wireless communication link 113.Indeed, wireless communication link 113 represents any means of wirelesscommunication, now known or yet to be discovered, that facilitatescommunication between footwear insole 102 and subscriber server 104including, but not limited to cellular networks (e.g., CDMA and GSM),satellite networks, WIFI networks, and radio communication.

Responsive to a command from subscriber server 104, tracking unit 102determines its location using location signals received from apositioning system 126 and transmits data indicative of the determinedposition back to subscriber server 104. Positioning system 126represents any type of satellite or terrestrial based positioning systemthat transmits signals that can be used to determine location. Forexample, a global positioning system (GPS) currently in use employs aplurality of satellites that continuously transmit signals. GPSreceivers can calculate location by determining the difference in thetime of receipt of signals from different satellites. GPS technology iswell known, and so will not be described in detail herein.

As an alternative to a GPS type system, positioning system 126 can beincorporated into wireless communication link 113. For example, wirelesstelephone networks now have the capability of determining the locationof mobile telephone handsets based on signals from a plurality of signaltowers in the network. Wireless communication link 113 can then providethe determined location directly to tracking unit 102, which in turn cancommunicate the location to subscriber server 104. As a result,positioning system 126 can be thought of as either optional or as beingincorporated into wireless communication link 113.

Subscriber systems 118(1-p) are human users and/or electronic devicesthat allow the human subscriber/user (e.g., a person with an interest inthe location of the person wearing tracking unit 102) to electronicallyinteract with servers 104(1-n) to define data augmentation preferencesand to obtain customized augmented location data and alerts from theirassociated tracking units(s) 102. For instance, when a user initiallysubscribes to the tracking system 100, the subscriber optionally sets upa username and password with one of servers 104 via a subscriber system118. That particular server 104 would also create a subscriber profileuniquely associated with that subscriber and then allow the subscriber(again via subscriber system 118) to customize what augmentationroutines the subscriber would like use to augment the location datareceived from his tracking unit 102. Server 104 then stores thesubscriber's profile in subscriber database 106. In addition, if asubscriber registers more than one tracking units 102 with system 100,then a separate subscriber profile can be created in subscriber profiledatabase 106 for each tracking unit 102 associated with the subscriber.Alternatively, multiple tracking units 102 can be associated with asingle subscriber profile in database 106, for example, where thesubscriber wishes to run the same augmentation routines on the locationdata provided by each associated tracking unit 102. The subscriberprofiles in database 106 also contain any other pertinent informationassociated with a subscriber such as personal information (address,telephone number, etc.), payment information such as a credit cardnumber, a network identifier uniquely identifying the subscriber 118 onthe network 122, etc. Subscribers 118(1-p) represent individuals with aninterest in the location of the person wearing tracking unit 102. Forexample tracking system 100 can be used by parents to locate children,by service departments to locate emergency service personal in thefield, and so on.

Generally, a server 104 operates as follows to provide customizedaugmented location data to a subscriber using a subscriber system 118.Server 104, upon receiving the location data from a tracking unit 102,associates the location data with a particular subscriber, augments thelocation according to one or more of a plurality of predeterminedroutines based on information associated with the subscriber, and thenpresents the augmented location data to the subscriber via internetwork122 and an associated subscriber system 118. Note that the predeterminedaugmentation routines can be defined in the subscriber's profile storedin subscriber profile database 106, or could have been input manually bythe subscriber via subscriber system 118 before the location data wasaugmented.

It should be noted that the present embodiment is described with respectto “subscribers” using subscriber systems 118, implying that thesubscribers pay for the services provided by tracking system 100. Forexample, subscription services offered for a subscriber's use of system100 could vary by price based on any number of criteria such as thecomplexity of the augmented location data provided, the number ofaugmentation routines employed by the subscriber, the augmented locationdata delivery method, the number of tracking units 102 associated with asubscriber, and so on. However, tracking system 100 is not limited to asubscription type business model. For example, access to system 100could be provided to the subscribers for free, and system 100 could relyon some other business model to raise revenue.

Tracking units 102(1-m) optionally include software and/or firmware thatfacilitates communication directly with one or more of subscribers118(1-p) via a telecommunications carrier 130.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing tracking unit 102 in greater detail toinclude a short-range tracking device (SRDT) 200 and a long-rangetracking device (LRTD) 202. In addition, one subscriber system 118 isshown to be included in a facility 205 (e.g., a hospital, long term careunit, etc.) along with a local tracking system 206. SRTD 200 includes,for example, a radio frequency identification (RFID) device that enablestracking unit 102 to be tracked in locations where satellite signalscannot be detected by LRTD 202 and/or where battery life of the trackingunit is a consideration. As another option, SRTD 200 can include aBLUETOOTH® low energy (BLE) device. Indeed, SRTD 200 can be any devicecapable of being tracked locally.

In this example, tracking unit 102 is being worn by a patient infacility 205. When tracking unit 102 is within the perimeters offacility 205, SRTD 200 communicates location data to (or is simplydetectable by) local tracking system 206 via a wireless link 208, whileLRTD 202 remains inactive. If the patient wearing tracking unit 102leaves the perimeter of facility 205, LRTD 202 is activated and SRTD 200is optionally deactivated. There are many ways to detect that trackingunit 102 is beyond the perimeters of facility 205. For example, localtracking system 206 could lose communication with SRTD 200. Optionally,local tracking system 206 could detect that tracking unit 102 hasexceeded the allowable range (or no longer be able to detect trackingunit 102). As yet another option, local tracking system 206 can detectSRTD 200 passing an unauthorized point (e.g., out a door of facility205). Whatever type of SRTD is used, once local tracking system 206determines that SRTD 200 has left facility 205, local tracking system206 notifies subscriber system 118, which communicates an alert toserver 104 through a link 210. Once the alert is received, server 104sends tracking unit 102 a communication, via tracking interface 112,instructing tracking unit 102 to activate LRTD 202 and (optionally)deactivate SRTD 200. As another option, in embodiments where SRTD 200 isable to detect that it is out of range, SRTD 200 can activate LRTD 202.When activated, LRTD 202 receives wireless signals 212 from positioningsystem 126, calculates location data, and relays the current location toserver 104 via tracking interface 112 and wireless communication link113. Then, server 104 can communicate the location of LRTD to subscriber118 and/or other emergency personnel.

If tracking unit 102 enters back into the perimeters defined by localtracking system 206, wireless link 208 (or mere detection) can bereestablished. Once it is determined that SRTD 200 is back in facility205, LRTD 202 can be deactivated and STRD 200 can be reactivated (inembodiments where STRD 200 is an active device).

FIG. 3 is a representational floor plan of care facility 205. In thisparticular embodiment, a beacon 300 is positioned near each exit 302 offacility 205 to detect when a wearer 304 of SRTD 200 is beyond somepredetermined perimeter. If wearer 304 moves near beacon 300, localtracking system 206 is alerted via a wireless link 306. Local trackingsystem 206 then alerts subscriber 118 via a link 308. Subscriber 118then notifies server 104 via communication link 210, so that server 104can take appropriate actions such as, for example, activating LRTD 202.Once activated, server 104 can request and receive the current positionof LRTD 202, and communicate that position to subscriber 118 and/oremergency responders.

FIG. 4 shows an example of tracking unit 102 embodied in a pair ofremovable footwear insoles 400R and 400L, configured for insertion intoa right shoe 402R and left shoe 402L, respectively. Insole 400L includesLRTD 202 embedded within an insole body 404L, and insole 400R includesSRTD 200 embedded within another insole body 404R. Insoles 400R and 400Lare intended to be used in combination as a pair. However, a user couldelect to use either insole 400R or 400L alone, and still achieve thebenefits provided by the respective insole. For example, a userinterested only in long range, outdoor tracking could use insole 400L,without insole 400R. Conversely, a user interested only in trackingwithin a facility could use insole 400R, without insole 400L. In suchcases, an insole without any tracking device can be used in the oppositeshoe to maintain a consistent feel for the wearer. Of course, it doesnot matter into which insole (right or left) a particular trackingdevice (SRTD 200 of LRTD 202) is incorporated.

The removability of footwear insoles 400L and 400R from shoes 402L and402R, respectively, allow footwear insoles 400L and 400R to be used inany other shoes that a wearer owns, even if those shoes are notnecessarily designed for tracking devices. This is particularlydesirable because the consumer is not limited to shoes designedspecifically for tracking systems.

FIG. 5 shows a top perspective view of LRTD 202 according to oneembodiment of the present invention. LRTD 202 includes a locationdetermining device 500, a wireless communication device 502, a powersource 504, and a charging system 506 all coupled to a printed circuitboard (PCB) 508.

Location determining device 500 is, for example, a global positioningsystem (GPS) receiver mounted directly on PCB 508. Location determiningdevice 500 includes a GPS module 510 (shown in FIG. 6) mounted on abottom surface 514 of PCB 508 and a GPS antenna 512 mounted on a topsurface 516 of PCB 508. Module 510 facilitates calculating the positionof a user based on the timing of satellite signals received by GPSantenna 512.

Wireless communication device 502 is, for example, a wireless cellularmodem that communicates with a wireless cellular network. Wirelesscommunication device 502 includes a subscriber identity module (SIM)card 518, a microprocessor 520, and a global system for mobilecommunications (GSM) antenna 522, all connected via PCB 508. Inparticular, SIM card 518 and microprocessor 520 are mounted on bottomsurface 514 of PCB 508, and GSM antenna 522 is mounted on top surface516 of PCB 508.

Power source 504 is a rechargeable lithium polymer battery that providespower to LRTD 202. In the example embodiment, power source 504 isconnected to PCB 508 via a wired modular connector 524. The inventorshave found that modular connectors are sometimes preferred over directsolder connections because they maintain a reliable electricalconnection during the forming of body 404L around LRTD 202. Modularconnectors that connect components to PCB 508 are also more robust inmaintaining a reliable electrical connection when footwear insole 400Lflexes during normal use. As an alternative, power source 504 can be aflexible lithium ceramic battery (FLCB), to eliminate the bulkynon-flexible properties inherent in other battery types. In addition,FLCB batteries can be formed into various shapes, thereby making FLCB'sdesirable for oddly shaped form factors such as insoles. As yet anotheralternative, power source 504 can be a miniature power generator thatharnesses energy from the user's steps. Although not shown in FIG. 5,power source 504 can be disposed in a thin fire-proof bag such as, forexample, a liposack. To prevent damage that can occur if a user steps ona sharp object, power source 504 is protected by a protective plate 526.In this example, protective plate 526 is formed, for example, fromaluminum, which is relatively strong and light-weight.

Charging system 506 is operative to recharge power source 504. In thisparticular embodiment, charging system 506 is an inductive charge padcoupled to power source 504 indirectly through PCB 508. The inductivecharge pad provides a means for charging power source 504 without theneed for a direct conductive electrical connection outside of insole404L. This is particularly advantageous in that LRTD 202 can becompletely embedded in body 404L without any external terminals, thusimproving reliability.

FIG. 6 shows a bottom view of LRTD 202. In this example, GPS module 510,SIM card 518, a microprocessor 520, and a modular battery connectorreceiver 600 are mounted on bottom surface 514 of PCB 508. As shown, GSMantenna 522 is positioned at the rear of PCB 508 and power source 504,charging system 506, and plate 526 are positioned in front of PCB 508.

FIG. 7 shows a top perspective view of LRTD 202 with a housing 700 forprotecting PCB 508 and components connected thereto from damage. In thisexample, housing 700 partially encapsulates PCB 508. That is, housing700 includes a recessed region 702 that receives PCB 508. Housing 700extends above top surface 516 so as to prevent unwanted pressure frombeing exerted directly on components and electrical connections. The topof housing 700 forms a bridge over PCB 508 and the components andconnection thereon.

FIG. 8 shows a top perspective view of LRTD 202 with an alternatehousing 800 for protecting tracking device 202 from damage during use.In this example, housing 800 includes a top 802 and a bottom 804 fixedtogether to completely enclose LRTD 202 therein. This is advantageous,because housing 800 protects LRTD 202 from both mechanical damage andmoisture damage. Completely enclosing LRDT 202 also protects LRDT 202from damage by the material and process of molding LRDT 202 into insolebody 404L.

FIG. 9 shows a top view of LRTD 202 disposed within a protectivesubstrate 900. In the example embodiment, LRTD 202 is vacuum sealedwithin an antistatic bag 900, to protect LRTD 202 from staticelectricity and moisture. In addition, bag 900 prevents polyurethane (orother molding material) from entering any cavities on LRTD 202, whichcan disrupt connections and cause other damage when the polyurethanecures. Bag 900 also facilitates the clean removal of used devices frominsole body 404L for reuse and/or refurbishing. Optionally, protectivebag 900 can be made from a fire-proof material such as, for example, aliposack.

FIG. 10 shows a top perspective view of LRTD 202 according to anotherembodiment of the present invention. In this example, LRTD 202additionally includes a protective layer 1000 formed around PCB 508 andthe components and connectors mounted thereon. Layer 1000 is, forexample, an epoxy layer that protects PCB 508 and components mountedthereon from mechanical damage and moisture damage. Layer 1000 alsoprotects the components during the process of forming of body 404L. Theinventors have found that when body 404L is formed out of polyurethane,layer 1000 prevents uncured polyurethane from penetrating between PCB508 and components mounted thereon. This is important because thepolyurethane has a tendency to expand when it cures, therebydisconnecting components from PCB 508.

FIG. 11 shows the relative position of LRTD 202 within insole 400L. Inthis view, the material of body 404L is shown transparent so that thepositioning of LRTD 202 within body 404L is visible. Insole 400L furtherincludes a heal pad 1100 disposed on the bottom surface of body 404L andunder LRTD 202. As shown, antenna 512 and 522, and charging system 506are positioned just under the top surface of insole 400L.

FIGS. 12A through 12D illustrate one method for manufacturing insoles400L and 400R. In a first step, as depicted in FIG. 12A, an insole mold1200 is provided. Mold 1200 includes a pair (left and right) of insoleshaped cavities 1202. In a second step, as depicted in FIG. 12B, a setof heal pads 1100 are positioned at the heal region of cavities 1202.Heal pads 1100 keep LRTD 202 and SRTD 200 up off of the bottom ofcavities 1202 and ensures that LRTD 202 and SRTD 200 are fullyencapsulated in insole bodies 400L and 400R, respectively. Optionally,mold 1200 can include a set of bumps on the bottom surface of eachcavity 1202 to facilitate polyurethane flow under LRTD 202 and SRTD 200.

In a third step, as depicted in FIG. 12C, plate 526 and LRTD 202 arepositioned in the left one of cavities 1202, and SRTD 200 is positionedin the right one of cavities 1202. Then, in a fourth step, as depictedin FIG. 12D, uncured polyurethane 1204 is poured into cavities 1202,thereby submerging LRTD 202, SRTD 200, plate 526, and heal pads 1100.Once cavities 1202 are filled with polyurethane 1204, polyurethane 1204is then cured to form bodies 404. Finally, insoles 400L and 400R areremoved from cavities 1202. Although the manufacturing process isdescribed using an open top mold, a closed mold can be used to providecontour to the upper surfaces of insole bodies 404.

FIG. 13 shows a top view of an insole 1300L according to anotherembodiment of the present invention. Several components aresubstantially similar or identical to components of insole 400L.Therefore, those components are denoted by like numbers and theirdescriptions are omitted to avoid redundancy.

Insole 1300L includes a body 404L and a LRTD 1302. LRTD 1302 issubstantially similar to LRTD 1302, except that the inductive chargingpad of charging system 506 is replaced by a set of battery chargingwires 1304 that extend out of body 404L. As shown, wires 1304 are coiledwithin body 404L to reduce stress applied to wires 1304 and PCB 508 asthe wearer of insole 1300L walks. As the wearer takes a step, coiledwires 1304 flex like a spring. As previously mentioned, body 404L isshown transparent to show details of tracking LRTD 1302 that wouldotherwise not be visible.

FIG. 14 shows a top view of an insole 1400L according to anotherembodiment of the present invention. Insole 1400L includes a body 404Land a LRTD 1402. LRTD 1402 is substantially similar to LRTD 1302 exceptthat battery charging wires 1304 are replaced by a set of wires 1404that extend out of body 404L, but are arranged differently. As shown,wires 1404 are wrapped around PCB 508 to reduce stress applied to wires1404 and PCB 508 as the wearer of insole 1400 walks. As the user takes astep, wires 1404 pull slightly against PCB 508 rather than against thesolder joints where wires 1404 are attached to PCB 508. Again, body 404Lis shown transparent so that the details of LRTD 1502 are visible.

FIG. 15 shows a top view of an insole 1500L according to anotherembodiment of the present invention. Insole 1500 includes a body 404Land a LRTD 1502. LRTD 1502 is substantially similar to LRTD 1302 exceptthat battery charging wires 1304 are replaced by a set of wires 1504that extend out of body 404L, but are arranged differently. As shown,wires 1504 are bent into a zig-zag pattern across PCB 508, which reducesstress applied to wires 1504 and PCB 508 as the wearer of insole 1500walks. As the user takes a step, wires 1504 flex like a spring. Again,body 404L is shown transparent so that the details of LRTD 1502 arevisible.

FIG. 16 shows a top view of an insole 1600L according to yet anotherembodiment of the present invention. Insole 1600L includes a body 404Land a LRTD 1602. LRTD 1602 is substantially similar to LRTD 402 exceptthat the inductive charging pad of charging system 506 is replaced by amini USB cable 1604 that is accessible from the exterior of body 404L.Again, body 404L is shown transparent so that the details of LRTD 1502are visible.

FIG. 17 shows a rear view of insole 1600L wherein mini USB cable 1604 isaccessible through body 404L. During use, the socket of USB cable 1604is protected from debris and moisture by a resilient plug 1700, whichcan be removed to permit charging via a USB charger.

FIG. 18 shows a perspective view of an insole 1800 according to anotherembodiment of the present invention. Insole 1800 includes an opening1802, an electronic device receptacle 1804, and an electronic device1806. Opening 1802 receives electronic device receptacle 1804, whichincludes an opening 1808 configured to receive a variety of electronicdevices (i.e. electronic device 1806) designed with a complementaryconfiguration. As shown, opening 1808 includes a set of channels 1810that receive a complimentary set of lips 1812 of electronic device 1806.Channels 1810 and lips 1812, together, prevent electronic device 1806from being inserted into opening 1808 improperly. Although not shown inthe view of FIG. 18, receptacle 1804 includes means for retaining andselectively releasing (e.g., one or more detents, clips, frictional fit,etc.) device 1806 from receptacle 1804.

In the example embodiment, electronic device 1806 is a LRTD thatincludes substantially identical components and functionality as LRTD202. It should be understood, however, that electronic device 1806 neednot necessarily be limited to tracking systems. Electronic device 1806can be any type of device that would be advantageous to carry in afootwear insole. Examples of such devices include, but are not limitedto, a pedometer, a scale, health monitors (e.g., pulse sensor,temperature sensor, etc.), personal area network devices, and so on.Indeed, receptacle 1804 can receive, retain, and selectively release anydevice with a complementary configuration, whether electronic or not.

The complementary receiver/device design provides several importantadvantages. For example, the design allows users to swap out differentdevices for different circumstances, without the need to replace thefootwear or the insole. Another important advantage is thatincorporating the receiver into the insole instead of the deviceisolates the device from whatever manufacturing process is necessary toincorporate the receiver into the insole.

FIGS. 19A through 19C illustrate an alternate method of manufacturinginsole 1800. In a first step, as depicted in FIG. 19A, a set of healpads 1900 and an electronic device receptacle 1804 are positioned in aninsole mold 1902. Then in a second step, as depicted in FIG. 19B,polyurethane 1904 is poured into the cavities of mold 1902, over healpads 1900 and electronic device receptacle 1804. Finally, in a thirdstep, as depicted in FIG. 19C, polyurethane 1904 is cured and insoles1800 are removed from mold 1902.

FIG. 20 is a flow chart summarizing an example method 2000 formanufacturing a footwear insole. In a first step 2002, an insole mold isprovided. Then, in a second step 2004, a tracking device is provided.Next, in a third step 2006, an insole body material is provided. Then,in a fourth step 2008, the tracking device is positioned in the insolemold. Next, in a fifth step 2010, the insole body material is introduced(poured, injected, etc.) into the mold over the tracking device.Finally, in a sixth step 2012, the insole body material is cured/set,and the completed insole is removed from the mold.

FIG. 21 is a flow chart summarizing an example method 2100 of trackingan object. In a first step 2102, a short-range tracking device isattached to an object and, in a second step 2104, a long-range trackingdevice is attached to the same object. Then, in a third step 2106, theshort-range tracking device is used to determine when the object leavesa predetermined area. Next, in a fourth step 2108, the long-rangetracking device is activated. Then, in a fifth step 2110, the object istracked using the long-range tracking device.

The description of particular embodiments of the present invention isnow complete. Many of the described features may be substituted, alteredor omitted without departing from the scope of the invention. Forexample, LRTD systems (e.g., cellular triangulation), may be substitutedfor the GPS LRTD. As another example, the polyurethane used to form theinsole body can be substituted with various other materials suitable formanufacturing insoles. These and other deviations from the particularembodiments shown will be apparent to those skilled in the art,particularly in view of the foregoing disclosure.

We claim:
 1. A removable footwear insole comprising: an insole bodyconfigured for removable insertion into footwear and configured toengage the plantar region of a foot of a wearer; a tracking devicedisposed at least partially within the insole body; and a protectivestructure disposed at least partially within the insole body andadjacent at least a portion of the tracking device.
 2. The removablefootwear insole of claim 1, wherein the protective structure is afireproof enclosure at least partially enclosing the tracking device. 3.The removable footwear insole of claim 1, wherein the protectivestructure is an antistatic bag at least partially enclosing the trackingdevice.
 4. The removable footwear insole of claim 1, wherein theprotective structure is a layer of epoxy at least partially enclosingthe tracking device.
 5. The removable footwear insole of claim 1,wherein the protective structure is a rigid enclosure at least partiallyenclosing the tracking device and configured to protect the trackingdevice from mechanical damage.
 6. The removable footwear insole of claim5, wherein the rigid enclosure fully encloses the tracking device and issealed to protect the tracking device from moisture.
 7. The removablefootwear insole of claim 1, wherein the tracking device includes abattery; and the protective structure is disposed adjacent the battery.8. The removable footwear insole of claim 1, wherein the protectivestructure is configured to protect the tracking device while the insolebody is being manufactured.
 9. The removable footwear insole of claim 1,wherein the protective structure is configured to protect the trackingdevice while the insole body is inside the shoe of a user.
 10. Aremovable footwear insole comprising: an insole body configured forremovable insertion into footwear and configured to engage the plantarregion of a foot of a wearer; a location determining device; a wirelesscommunication device; and a battery configured to power the locationdetermining device and the wireless communication device; and wherein atleast one element of the location determining device, the wirelesscommunication device, or the battery is mounted on a first side of acircuit substrate; at least one other element of the locationdetermining device, the wireless communication device, or the battery ismounted on a second side of the circuit substrate opposite the firstside; and the location determining device, the wireless communicationdevice, the battery, and the circuit substrate together form a trackingdevice, the tracking device disposed at least partially within theinsole body.
 11. The removable footwear insole of claim 10, wherein: thelocation determining device is a global positioning system (GPS)receiver including a GPS module and a GPS antenna; the GPS module ismounted on the first side of the circuit substrate; and the GPS antennais mounted on the second side of the circuit substrate.
 12. Theremovable footwear insole of claim 10, wherein: the wirelesscommunication device is a wireless cellular modem including a subscriberidentity module (SIM) card, a microprocessor, and a communicationsantenna; the SIM card and the microprocessor are mounted on the firstside of the circuit substrate; and the communications antenna is mountedon the second side of the circuit substrate.
 13. The removable footwearinsole of claim 10, wherein: the wireless communication device is awireless cellular modem including a subscriber identity module (SIM)card, a microprocessor, and a communications antenna; the SIM card andthe communications antenna are mounted on the first side of the circuitsubstrate; and the microprocessor is mounted on the second side of thecircuit substrate.
 14. The removable footwear insole of claim 10,wherein: the wireless communication device is a wireless cellular modemincluding a subscriber identity module (SIM) card, a microprocessor, anda communications antenna; the communications antenna and themicroprocessor are mounted on the first side of the circuit substrate;and the SIM card is mounted on the second side of the circuit substrate.15. The removable footwear insole of claim 10, further comprising aninductive charging circuit electrically coupled to provide wirelesscharging of the battery, and wherein: the inductive charging circuit iscoupled the first side of the circuit substrate; and the battery iscoupled the second side of the circuit substrate.
 16. The removablefootwear insole of claim 15, wherein the inductive charging circuit andthe battery are coupled to the circuit substrate via wires electricallyconnected between the inductive charging circuit and the circuitsubstrate and between the battery and the circuit substrate.
 17. Theremovable footwear insole of claim 15, wherein the inductive chargingcircuit and the battery are coupled to the circuit substrate via wiredmodular connectors.
 18. The removable footwear insole of claim 10,wherein the circuit substrate is a printed circuit board (PCB).
 19. Theremovable footwear insole of claim 10, wherein the circuit substrate isa flexible circuit substrate.
 20. The removable footwear insole of claim10, wherein the battery is a flexible lithium ceramic battery.